Mobile workplace is dynamic and requirements are often changing at a rapid pace. To manage such a dynamic environment, specific software have been designed. These are termed as mobile workforce management software. The mobile workforce works in a real time .Scheduling, optimizing and tracking the workforce are the main components of a mobile workforce management system.Mobile service providers like any other, are required to maintain a certain level of service. For this they have service level agreements which often carry damage clauses which can seriously affect their working in case of lapses.
Mobile workforce management therefore becomes a important aspect which needs close attention. mobile workforce management automatically schedule jobs, assign work , respond to emergencies and usually perform housekeeping for mobile assets. Other functions may include workforce planning and workflow management.
The major issues which the mobile workforce management software has to address are the geographical spread of mobile assets. This obviously means that the workforce consisting of field engineers is spread over a large area. In order to efficiently control, manage and maintain these mobile resources, service engineers are provided with hand held computers which are connected with the mobile workforce management software. The data is directly fed into the handhelds in real time. The mobile workforce management software collates this
information and accordingly reschedules the work. The service engineer need not report back to the headquarters each time after completing their assignment. The entire system is connected to the supply chain management software. Spares and components can be automatically ordered and the inventory can be replenished. The entire system operates in a dynamic environment. Mobile workforce management is therefore a complete management solution for a mobile environment requiring real time operations.
Steve Rastall
